New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday advised Indian nationals to avoid travelling to Yemen due to the ongoing conflict and fragile security situation in the country.

"Our nationals in Yemen are advised to avoid conflict areas and to remain in contact with our Embassy in Sana`a for necessary advice and updated information on the evolving security situation," an advisory by the MEA stated.

"Indian nationals in Yemen may consider leaving the country on voluntary basis by commercial means, if it is safe to do so. Those nationals who do not have travel documents or need other consular services are advised to seek assistance from our Embassy in Sana`a," it added.

The Indian Embassy in Sana`a has set up helplines which can be accessed for information or assistance and can be accessed by dialling 00-967-734 000 658 and 00-967-734 000 657. Assistance can also be sought from hoc@eoisanaa.org.

Meanwhile, media reports say that India`s Ambassador to Yemen, Amrit Logun assured the safety of all India nationals in Yemen. He also reportedly added that the situation there was being closely monitored.

Around 3000 expatriate Indians, including nurses, professors, white collar workers, IT professionals and skilled and semi-skilled workers are registered with the Indian Embassy in Yemen.

The political and security crisis in Yemen has worsened with Houthi militiamen replacing presidential security officers outside the home of President Mansour Hadi. The rebel militia had yesterday taken control of the Presidential palace in the capital Sanaa.